Merna Peterson, 93 went to be with her husband and son Monday, January 23, 2017.  Merna was born August 7, 1923 to Carl and Beatrice Keil.  She had one sister Frieda who preceded her in death.  On August 9, 1942 she married the love of her life Robert “Pete” Peterson.  In 1943 she had her first child Ron (Karron) Peterson and in 1951 her daughter Julie (Jim) Simpson.  Pete and Merna live in Union Mills their entire married life.  Merna worked for Beatty Memorial Hospital for 17 years as an occupational therapist. Merna lived life to the fullest and especially loved spending time with her family.  She also loved trips to the casino with her dear friends Wes and Lucy, the Chicago Cubs, Monday night euchre at the Satellite Inn and her dog Bingo whom she had for 16 years. Merna had four grandchildren, Tammy (Greg) Wright, Derek (Eve) Simpson, Tricia Poort, Leslie (Troy) Ryan, eight great-grandchildren, three great-great grandchildren, and one more on the way. Merna was a life long member of the Bethel Presbyterian Church and a member of the Presbyterian Women’s Circle.  Funeral services will be at noon on Friday, January 27th at the Bethel Presbyterian Church in Union Mills.  Pastor John Beehler will officiate.  Burial will be in Union Mills Cemetery.  Visitation will be from 10:00 AM until the time of services on Friday at the church.  The family would like to say a special thank you to the staff at the Golden Living Center on I Street in LaPorte and Asera Care Hospice.  Memorial contributions can be made to the Bethel Presbyterian Church or organization of your choosing. The Newhard Funeral Home in Westville is in charge of arrangements www.newhardfuneralhome.com

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